Crowdsourcing Solutions to Nurse Weight Gain

Want to lose pounds or maintain a healthy weight as a nurse? Try crowdsourcing a solution. That’s the practice of soliciting ideas from a large group of people, especially when done online. Here’s why: We’re often so close to our own problems that we need to reach out to others for viable strategies.

That’s one reason that support groups, such as Weight Watchers (in-person or online versions) or Spark People (online community), work so well. In addition to the emotional reinforcement, there is an educational component. You’ll gather ingenious tips, tricks, and tools from various folks who are dealing with your same issues. You’re sure to find some solutions that will be effective for you and your lifestyle.

Here are some strategies that nurses say they’re employing to stop — or slow — weight gain. Which ones will work for you?:

> Absolutely no food or drink at the the nurses’ station or anywhere, for that matter, except the staff break room.

> Always take a lunch break. Remember: No one is going to die because you got away for lunch.

> Encourage vendors, doctors, and patients to bring healthy treats, such as fresh strawberries or tangelos.

> Leave all means of easily paying for food in the cafeteria at home and always pack a lunch the night before.

> Assign healthy meals to a partner or older kids to cook on work days. As long as they get specific instructions and you shop together it can work out.